Product Review                  

Week of April 28, 2008

 

Carson Optics

Click on Images to enlarge

Carson’s NoShock Compact Binocular

A backpacker’s best friend

Carson Optical has solved a major problem for backpackers, hikers, hunters and mountain bikers who travel rugged terrain.  Perhaps the greatest problem active outdoor people have experienced is damage to their optics in the middle of a trip at a critical juncture.  The innovative engineers at Carson have found a solution to that problem: Carson’s NoShock Binocular.

 

The NoShock model #NS-025 has been specifically engineered to protect it against internal damage caused by dropping or jarring the binocular.  The NoShock passed the 30-foot drop test with flying colors.  The image was crystal clear before the drop and was crystal clear after the drop—a real-world test that only Carson can pass. 

 

Specifications Include:

Magnification: 10x

Objective Lens Diameter: 25mm

Field of View: 275 ft. @ 1,000 yds

Min Focusing Distance: 10 ft

Prism: BAK-4

Eye Relief:  18mm

Prism/Lens Fully Multi-coated

Dimensions:  4-1/2 x 4-1/4 x 1-1/4”

Item Weight: 30 oz

 

About  $99.95      

 

800-9-OPTICS  (800-967-8427)

 

info@carsonoptical.com          www.carsonoptical.com

 

Carson Backcountry Spotting Scope

Collapsible and great for backpacking

The innovators at Carson Optical have introduced a collapsible, zoom spotting scope (SS-550) that proves good things come in small packages.  The scope not only collapses for compact carrying and storage, it also features a unique rotating eyepiece to allow both 45 degree and straight ahead viewing.

 

Multi-coated optics and a large light gathering 50mm lens assures crisp, bright images at both dawn and dusk.  The powerful 15-40x zoom eyepiece gives the user the ability to spot his quarry and zoom in to get up close and personal.  The SS-550 BackCountry also comes with a compact tripod for steady, exact viewing.

 

The Carson Backcountry Spotting Scope offers a built-in sunshade can be extended to reduce glare in bright sunlight.  The BackCountry collapses to just 9” for easy carrying and weights a very packable 23.5 oz.

 

This collapsible spotting scope is ideal for bow and gun hunters alike -- a perfect fit for longer range western hunting.  Additionally, the BackCountry is quite possibly the perfect bird watching spotting scope.

 

Specifications Include:

Magnification: 15x-40x

Objective Lens Diameter: 50mm

FOV: 141-72 ft at 1,000 yds

Min. Focusing Distance: 16 ft

Prism:  BK-7

Eye Relief: 14-11mm

Prism /Lens Multi-coated

Dimensions: 9”x3”x3”

Weight: 23.5 oz

 

About  $219.95      

 

800-9-OPTICS  (800-967-8427)

 

info@carsonoptical.com          www.carsonoptical.com

 

Carson Chrome Lighted Rimfree Magnifier

The perfect graduation gift

For fly tying, stamp collectors, coin collectors and hobbyists of all kinds, Carson Optical offers the MH-95, Chrome RimFree Lighted magnifier to help users see even the finest details with ease.  A perfect graduation gift, no other magnifier combines elegance and function with the panache of the Chrome Lighted RimFree model.

 

The MH-95 features a rimless 2x power acrylic lens that provides crystal clear magnified images.  Bright LED lights are built into the handle, allowing the finest illumination under low-light conditions.  The ergonomic polished chrome handle fits comfortably into any hand.  The rimless design gives the MH-95 a sleek, modernistic look.

 

The Carson Lighted RimFree magnifier is the perfect addition to any desk or hobbyist’s worktable and comes complete with cloth pouch and gift box.  The 3 1.5V silver-oxide button-watch batteries (model 389/SP389/D389) are included.

 

When looking for a unique, yet meaningful holiday gift, the MH-95 from Carson Optical is the ideal choice.  The Carson Stuff-It lens cleaning cloth is the perfect companion for this and the many other models of Carson magnifiers.

 

About  $13.95      

 

800-9-OPTICS  (800-967-8427)

 

info@carsonoptical.com          www.carsonoptical.com

 

Carson Waterproof Caribou Binocular

The engineers and product technology experts at Carson Optical have developed a full-feature, high quality optic at an extremely affordable price.  The Caribou 10x42mm Binocular (CB-042) is the perfect choice for sportsmen on a tight budget who still demand optimum quality and performance from their equipment.  This powerful binocular will perform like a champion in the field, on the trail and at spectator sports and concerts.

 

Specially designed with fully multi-coated optics and a top notch BAK-4 prism system, the Caribou provides crisp, bright, crystal clear images for all day viewing from dawn to dusk.  The optics also provide an impressive field of view -- 315 feet @ 1,000 yards.

 

Because nature does not always provide ideal weather conditions, the durable Caribou features an O-ring sealed, nitrogen purged body, making it both fogproof and waterproof.  Heavy-duty rubber armor body construction provides maximum protection from dropping or rough use.

 

Weighing in at a manageable 24 ounces, the Caribou offers a fairly compact profile at 6”x5”x2”.  This makes it ideal to carry by neck strap (strap and case included) or stowing in a game bag or backpack.  Carson enhances the Caribou by packaging the product in a beautiful full-color window box.  Topping off the package is Carson’s “America’s Best” warranty -- a true no-fault, no-hassle program that’s the best in the industry.  Rain or shine, dawn to dusk, the Caribou offers high quality optics at an affordable price.

 

About  $99.95    

 

800-9-OPTICS  (800-967-8427)

 

info@carsonoptical.com          www.carsonoptical.com

 

Carson Optical Trailfinder Binoculars

With built-in Digital Compass

Carson Optical has taken that important extra step and added a built-in digital compass to their TrailFinder 10x25mm compact binocular—a perfect companion for backpackers, hikers and hunters.

 

Combining the digital compass with top-notch optics makes the TrailFinder (TF-025) an indispensable piece of outdoor gear.  The quality/value relationship of Carson products makes this exceptional binocular extremely affordable.

 

This lightweight model weighs in at just 12 ounces.  It offers a 343-feet field of view at 1,000 yards and fully coated prism/lenses.  The digital compass is built right into the bridge of the binocular.  The easy-to-read compass displays the direction you are facing and the small arrow on the display always points north.  The TrailFinder is a travel companion that should accompany you on all outdoor adventures.

 

Specifications Include:

Magnification: 10x

Objective lens dia: 25mm

Field of view: 343 ft @ 1,000 yds 

Min view distance:  10 ft

Prism:  BAK-7

Eye relief:  10.5mm

Prism/lens coating: Fully multi-coated

Dimensions: 4 1/2" x 4 1/2" x 1 3/4"

Weight: 12 oz

 

About $89.95        

 

800-9-OPTICS  (800-967-8427)

 

info@carsonoptical.com          www.carsonoptical.com

 

Carson X-View Monocular

Close focus to 18”, perfect for butterflying

Imagine being able to view objects in finite detail—to be able to see minute details of things right in front of you that you didn’t even know were there.  The new Carson X-View (XV-732)  combines all of the advantages of a high-quality monocular with extreme close focusing at a distance of only 18 inches.

 

The X-View is particularly well suited to “butterflying”—a nature viewing activity that has grown tremendously in the past decade and parallels birding in many aspects.  Armed with a X-View and a field guide, enthusiasts can enjoy the challenge of identifying the more than 700 butterfly species in just North America alone.  The X-View’s 7x configuration combines lightweight, stable viewing with quality optics and extreme close focus to discern key identifiers like wing colors and patterns.

 

Highly adaptable to numerous viewing opportunities, the X-View can focus in on objects from less than two feet away, but still has the ability to follow an object to infinity.  The Carson X-View monocular offers the ability to stare into the eyes of an insect, examine the brush strokes of a masterpiece close up, and view wildlife or objects of interest at a distance. 

 

Weighing in at just eight ounces, the X-View is an optical product that is perfect for use by modern professionals and fits perfectly into a jacket pocket, purse, backpack or fannypack.  It is possibly the most universal, innovative optical product in today’s marketplace.  The X-View offers affordable viewing fun in virtually any and all situations.  In or out of the city or forest, the Carson X-View is educational, practical and fun.

 

Specifications Include:

Magnification: 7x

Objective lens dia: 32mm

Field of view: 381 feet @ 1,000 yards 

Min view distance:  18 inches

Prism:  BAK-4

Eye relief:  19mm

Prism/lens coating: Fully multi-coated

Dimensions: 5” x 1-3/4” x 1-3/4”

Weight: 8 oz

 

About $64.95      

 

800-9-OPTICS  (800-967-8427)

 

info@carsonoptical.com          www.carsonoptical.com

 

About Carson Optical

Carson is a leading supplier of consumer optics for all ages.  Branded products include a wide range of magnifiers, binoculars and related accessory products.  In 2007, Carson’s new XM-HD binoculars received the Editor’s Choice Award from Camping Life Magazine and Outside named the XM-HD as the “Killer Value” in the binocular category in the magazine’s Buyers Guide/Gear of the Year Issue.  The people at Carson are marketing specialists, offering outstanding packaging and strong advertising and editorial support.  Their line of products was created with the end user in mind.

 

Carson Binoculars are backed by Carson’s “America’s Best Binocular Warranty.”  In the event that binoculars are damaged, regardless of cause, Carson will repair or replace them for a total cost of $12.  This includes all return shipping and handling fees, NO HIDDEN CHARGES!  If binoculars are found to have manufacturing defects, in materials or workmanship, Carson will repair or replace the unit and return them FREE OF CHARGE.

 

Contact Carson toll-free:  1-800-9-OPTICS or visit our web site at www.carsonoptical.com,   info@carsonoptical.com

 

Carson Fly Fishing & Outdoor Magnifier Collection

Carson Optical offers a complete collection of specialty magnifying tools and accessories geared toward fly fishers and outdoor use.

 

Carson MagniFly (OD-65)

Carson MagniFly (OD-65) is the perfect tool to fulfill the handcrafted precision that fly tyers demand.  This lighted, fully adjustable, flexible-arm magnifier attaches to a workbench, table or fly tying vise for convenient hands-free use.  The large 2x lens provides a crystal-clear, distortion-free view, while the 4x spot lens allows viewing minute details with ease. 

 

Three LED lights provide excellent brightness for precision tying and work off a power adapter or three AAA batteries for convenient use at camp or cabin.  The OD-65 is also useful for model building and working on small electronic components.

 

Specifications Include:

Magnification:    2x with 4x Spot Lens

Lens Diameter:  110 mm

Light Source:     Three LED Lights

Dimensions:      24” x 4” x 4”

Weight:             21 Ounces

Three AAA Batteries (Not included)

4.5V AC/DC Power Adapter

 

About  $49.95     

  

Carson Fish’n Grip (OD-99)

A 4-in-1 tool includes Magnifier 

The Carson Fish’n Grip (OD-99) has so many features it is a must-have for any fly-fisher.  This handy compact, 4-in-1 tool includes tweezers and 4x magnifier to see the fine details while tying a fly, making quick repairs, or simplifying hook threading.  The Fish’n Grip also incorporates a built-in line clipper and a hook eye cleaner. 

 

This multi-purpose fishing tool is just the right size to fit in any pocket, throw in a tackle box or hang conveniently on a fishing vest.  The Fish’n Grip comes complete with a PVC pouch to keep the magnifier clean and protected.

 

About  $7.99      

  

Carson TyMate (OD-75)

hands-free 1.5x lighted magnifier

The Carson TyMate will turn any brimmed cap into a hands-free 1.5x lighted magnifier.  Its crystal-clear acrylic lenses give you a sharp distortion-free view to allow you to see even the finest details with ease.  Super bright LED lights provide illumination in low-light conditions. 

 

The TyMate folds easily into its built-in protective case for compact storage.  It uses three (3) GP-395 button-cell batteries (included). The TyMate is perfect for fly-tying, is ideal for any outdoor activity where hands-free magnification is needed and great for model building, crafts, and map reading.  It has super bright LED lights for low-light viewing.

 

About  $18.95        

  

Carson Clip & Flip (OD-10)

The Carson Clip & Flip will turn glasses or sunglasses into super magnifying lenses! The 2.25 diopter acrylic lenses provide sharp, distortion-free viewing to see the fine details with ease.  Simply place Clip & Flip onto the nosepiece of glasses. 

 

Flip down for super magnified images, or flip up for normal viewing. Great for tying on small flies.  Complete with a protective soft pouch.

 

About  $9.95       

  

Carson MagniGrip (OD-55)

The MagniGrip is a compact, handheld 4x magnifier combined with a built-in fine point tweezers just perfect for all those “little” emergencies. It’s great for travel and camping, and First-Aid: removing splinters and Deer Ticks.  Compact, fits easily into pocket.

 

About  $3.95       

  

Carson MagniView (OD-36)

The MagniView is a handheld, easy to use 2.5x magnifier for home, recreation or travel.  Its crystal-clear acrylic lens gives you a sharp distortion-free view, and a 5x spot lens allows you to see even the finest details with ease. 

 

The MagniView is great for reading maps and other small print; it’s ideal for all recreational uses.

 

About  $7.95     

  

Carson LumiClick (OD-25)

The LumiClick is a compact 5x pop-out magnifier  with a protective case.  The built-in light makes it perfect for use in the dark, and its crystal-clear acrylic lens gives you a sharp, distortion-free view.  Lightweight and easy to pack, it is a great travel accessory.  Uses 2-AAA batteries (not included).  

 

The LumiClick is great for reading maps and other small print, or to identify flora or fauna. 

 

About  $9.95        

 

800-9-OPTICS  (800-967-8427)

 

info@carsonoptical.com          www.carsonoptical.com

 

Carson Optical XM Premium Binoculars

Full-size 8x42HD and 10x42HD XM HD (High Definition)

Carson’s new high performance, full-size 8x42HD and 10x42HD XM HD (High Definition) Binoculars offer excellent optics—plus new optical coating technology. This technology significantly enhances light gathering capabilities for even brighter, sharper images in low-light conditions.   

 

In independent lab performance testing—measuring light transmission through the complete binocular, the Carson XM-HD 8x42 beat out models by the most recognized and respected binocular brands.  Pitted against other, higher-priced 8x42mm units from Bushnell, Leupold, Nikon, Pentax and Steiner, the XM-HDs tested at 84.7% light transmittance and ranked best in the quality/value comparison. Consumers are invited to read the test reports at www.carson-optical.com,  click XMHD Binocular report.

 

Rich Cameron, Carson president and CEO stated, “Early on in product development we knew we had a special binocular, the report proved just how good the XM-HDs are. We know we have a winner, especially for the hunting and birding markets.” 

 

     

      8x42HD                        10x42HD

 

About  $350.00  - $360.00                      

 

800-9-OPTICS  (800-967-8427)

 

info@carsonoptical.com          www.carsonoptical.com

 

Carson  Premium 10x50mm XM-HD binoculars

High Definition, new configuration

Carson introduces a new model to their premium XM-HD (High Definition) series. The new configuration is the 10x50mm XM-HD.   

 

These binoculars offer signature XM high-performance with excellent optics—plus the HD new technology to significantly enhance light gathering capabilities for even brighter, sharper images in low-light conditions.  The 10x50mm XM-HD binocular is an excellent choice for long distant viewing of nature and wildlife, action sports or astronomical observation. With HD light-gathering, performance technology and large 50mm objective, the 10x50mm model lends itself particularly well to dawn/dusk low light viewing. 

 

Building on the successful XM platform, the 10x50mm XM-HD incorporates premium features and elements key to lightweight, well-balanced, full-sized binocular design. Fully-multicoated lenses and phase-coated optics ensure crystal clear images with less glare and full range of color to allow the user to view and pick out even the smallest details.  Rubberized armoring offers protection from bumps and dings and provides a positive grip in all weather conditions. 

 

The body is nitrogen filled and o-ring sealed—providing excellent water, fog and dust proofing.   Center dial focus is quick and smooth. The 10x50mm also offers twist-lock eye relief cups, right diopter correction and is tapped for tripod adapter.  Included with the binocular are a soft case, carrying strap, lens caps, binocular strap and cleaning cloth. The 10x50mm represents an outstanding value and premium performance.  Carson’s full line of XM-HD models include 8x32mm, 8x42mm, 10x42mm and 10x5mm configurations.

 

Specifications Include:

Magnification: 10x

Objective Lens: 50mm

Prism Type: BAK-4

Lens Coating: Fully Multi-Coated

Field Of View: 262 ft. at 1,000 yards

Eye Relief: 19mm

Minimum Focus: 19 ft.

Weight: 34.0 oz.

Dimensions: 5 5/8" x 7" x 2 1/4"

Includes: Pouch, neck strap, lens covers and lens cloth

 

About  $380.00      

 

800-9-OPTICS  (800-967-8427)

 

 info@carsonoptical.com          www.carsonoptical.com

 

Carson new JK series binoculars

Quality and value in 8X42mm and 10X42mm configurations

The new Carson JK-8x42MM and JK-10x42mm Close Focus roof prism binoculars provide high quality optics at a value packed price.

 

The JK series offers full-size binoculars with many premium design features. They are an ideal choice for nature and wildlife viewing.  With close focus ranging from 5-6 ft, they are particularly well suited for birding and butterflying—allowing users to move in and pick up key identifying details on favorite warbler and butterfly species.  Ruggedly constructed, the JK models are excellent companions for hiking, camping, hunting and fishing trips.  Select either the 8X or 10X model to fit viewing preferences.

 

Both JK models feature BAK-4 prisms and fully multi-coated optics for crisp, clear viewing with excellent contrast.  Large 42mm objective lenses gather plenty of light to ensure the viewing image is bright, even in low light conditions. These binoculars are O-ring sealed and nitrogen purged making them waterproof, fogproof and dustproof.  Rugged design and heavy-duty rubber armor help protect against optical damage caused by dropping or jarring these binoculars.

 

Twist-up eyecups stop in three positions to provide optimal eye relief, with or without eyeglasses. The large center focus wheel turns smoothly for precise focus adjustments.  Independent right diopter adjustment makes it possible to fine tune the focus to compensate for vision differences between the users’ own two eyes.  Well designed and lightweight, Carson’s JK binoculars are ready to make sure don’t miss a thing—rain or shine—on your next outdoor adventure.

 

Specifications:     JK-842        JK-1042   

Magnification          8x                10x      

Objective Lens        42 mm         42 mm 

FOV @ 1000 yds   320 ft            306 ft   

Exit Pupil               5.25 mm         4.2 mm 

Eye Relief             22 mm          16 mm 

Min Focus Dist:      5 ft.                 6 ft.               

Weight                   21.5 oz        22 oz.                 

Rubber Armored

Prism: BAK-4 Roof

Lens Multi-Coated

Waterproof/Nitrogen Filled

 

        

           JK-842                          JK-1042

 

About  $140.00                       $150.00  

 

800-9-OPTICS  (800-967-8427)

 

 info@carsonoptical.com          www.carsonoptical.com

 

 


State Fish Pages

Illinois - Indiana - Michigan - Minnesota - Ohio - Pennsylvania - New York - Wisconsin - Ontario

 

Home | Great Lakes States | Membership | Exotics Update | Great Links

Pending Issues | Regional News | Great Lakes Basin Report | Weekly News / Archives 


All contents Copyright © 2001-2008, GLSFC All Rights Reserved.